What is the purpose of the Internet Protocol (IP) in networking?

The purpose of the Internet Protocol (IP) in networking is to specify the format of packets and the addressing scheme used to identify devices on a network. IP is fundamental to how data is transmitted over the internet and allows different devices to communicate effectively.

By defining a packet structure, IP ensures that data can be encapsulated and correctly interpreted when received by the destination device. This encapsulation involves organizing the data into a standardized format that includes essential information such as source and destination IP addresses. The addressing scheme allows devices to locate and communicate with one another across different networks. Without this structured approach, data packets would be misdirected or lost, leading to communication failures.

Additionally, while IP does play a role in routing paths for data, the primary function related to this question focuses on the format and addressing aspect, which serves as the underlying framework for network communication.